Mid-Day Opinion: Hurrah for the Haalands

Erling Haaland with the acquired 1594 edition of Snorri Sturluson’s Kongesagaer. PIC COURTESY/@historyinmemes on X

As the world continues to remain divided between the pro and anti-Messi/Argentina factions, far away in Scandinavia, a beautiful story that brings together one of my favourite countries at this year's FIFA World Cup - Norway - and one of my favourite topics - literature - earned my salaams.

Without much fanfare, Norway's star footballer, Erling Haaland and his father, Alf-Inge Haaland, had acquired one of Norway's greatest literary treasures: A 1594 edition of Snorri Sturluson's Kongesagaer. This is supposed to be the only surviving copy, consisting of centuries'-old documentation about the country's early history of its Viking kings. It was purchased by the family at an auction, and was recently donated to his hometown library in Time Municipality, Bryne, where Haaland grew up. What's heartwarming is that instead of keeping it as a vanity memento in their private collection, the Haalands made it accessible to the public. According to many world news agencies that caught the story after the World Cup ended, when Haaland had become a global sensation, the family paid 1.3 million Norwegian Kroner (approximately $134,000) to secure this manuscript. Archival records reveal that it was the first printed history of Norway, and has helped safeguard the stories of Norway's kings.

The affable star, whose fan following has skyrocketed for reasons both on and off the field, admitted that while he's never been a serious reader, he wanted fellow Norwegians and the public to access and learn about the nation's roots via this prized, rare publication. We did a virtual jig, when we learnt that the donation from the Haalands had also facilitated a reading competition to inspire children from the town, and young people in general, to discover Norway's history and literary heritage. Haaland told Norwegian media that while he was lucky to live his dream through football, not everyone gets such opportunities. He felt that books could offer more people the chance to dream big, and realise their own goals."

Inspiring as it might be, this real-life story with a happy ending leaves a bitter taste in the mouth of folks like us in India, and Mumbai in context to this column's universe. After reading about this remarkable story, it got me thinking - why is it that we do not hear of such meaningful gestures of philanthropy from our young, iconic cricketers or cine superstars, especially in context with preserving our nation's cultural or literary treasures? Wouldn't it be wonderful if these big-ticket names were to direct some of their earnings for the greater, common good?

Philanthropy used to run deep in this city's veins, and was always part of its identity. Public funding was integral to city-building, and most reliable historic accounts of erstwhile Bombay's landmarks will reveal names involved in these generous efforts. The first name that comes to mind in the field of education - since Haaland's outreach is a similar one - is the Rajabai Clock Tower, on Fort's University campus, which houses the University Library. It was funded by Indian businessman and stockbroker Sir Premchand Roychand, who donated Rs 2,00,000 in 1864 on the condition that it be named after his mother. The philanthropic zeal of its wealthy residents included original inhabitants, and migrants who came to the city in search of better opportunities, or a better life, away from persecution.

While we see intent from some of Mumbai's business families in the fields of heritage conservation, education and empowerment, and safeguarding our environment, what makes Haaland's act refreshing and inspiring is how the intent of a youth icon helped restore a national treasure in his country. That means a lot, if we look at the larger picture from a cultural and historical standpoint. It directs our gaze to India's deep-pocketed young cricketers in particular, given that it is the most widely followed sport in the country, as well as their counterparts in the film industry. Both sets remain India's biggest influencers. Now, imagine the ripple effect if they were to put their mind into such philanthropic ideas, and towards supporting our country's history and cultural legacies?

That would be the day when we read about a young cricket talent or film star doing Haaland-like things. Until then, we'll continue to applaud our young Viking, by chanting "Ro-Ro-Ro" for his superb gesture.

mid-day's Features Editor Fiona Fernandez relishes the city's sights, sounds, smells and stones...wherever the ink and the inclination takes her. She tweets @bombayana
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